Arrest in Honesdale arson cases

April 27, 2012 —

After a nearly one month long investigation, on 4/25/2012, the Honesdale Borough Police served an arrest warrant on Samuel Joseph WEST age 33 from Honesdale, for the two arsons that took place on 03/30/12 in the Borough of Honesdale. WEST was arrested at SCI Waymart where he is currently incarcerated on unrelated charges.

WEST was arraigned at the Wayne County Courthouse where he was formally charged with 2 counts of felony Arson Endangering Persons, 2 counts of misdemeanor Causing or Risking a Catastrophe, and 19 counts of misdemeanor Recklessly Endangering Another person.

Bail was set at $100,000.00 and WEST was returned to SCI Waymart. A Central Court Appearance is set for 05/02/2012 at The Wayne County Courthouse.

Anyone with information concerning the two arsons, or who may have had contact with WEST on the night of the Arsons, is being asked to contact the Honesdale Borough Police (570) 253-1900.

Press release from March 30th.

The Honesdale Borough Police are investigating two arson fires that occurred on 03/30/12 at approximately 11:00 p.m. and 11:15 p.m. The first incident occurred at approximately 11:00 p.m. when an unknown person/s started a fire behind the business of George W. Kinsman Inc., on Main Street. The fire was extinguished by a resident. No one was hurt in this fire.
Damage to the building did occur.

The second fire occurred at approximately 11:15 p.m. when an unknown person/s started a fire outside of The Delaware and Hudson Hotel on Terrace Street. The fire caused damage to the building and was quickly extinguished by some guests, employees, and the Honesdale Fire Department.

Both fires are being investigated by the Honesdale Borough Police, PA State Police Fire Marshal, and the Honesdale Fire Department. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Honesdale Borough Police at (570) 253-1900.

It appears that the two fires could possibly be connected. Police are currently looking into some leads. Police urge residents to call 911 immediately if they observe any suspicious activity or person/s around any businesses or residences.